Fun and Different Date Nights!

The leaves are changing, the air blows crisp and the days seem to grow shorter.  Fall is among us again and it always seems to arrive faster than the year before. Perhaps due to the busy summer you just spent planning and celebrating your amazing wedding. Afterwards, your lives begin to change pace and slow down after such a memorable and special time.  Now arises the opportunity to venture out and explore together as Newlyweds in the months to come! With all of the unique cuisine, art and activities there is so much to see in the beautiful Rose City.

Northwest Portland:

Pearl District has an immensity of dinning options and shopping. Take the Portland Street Car around and explore.  In Good Taste has great cooking classes taught by professionals.  Stroll around Jamison Square or Tanner Springs Park. The First Thursday of every month, enjoy Art Galleries, Entertainment and Businesses open to all.

Don’t forget about Nob Hill also known as 23^rd and it’s abundance of Boutique Shops.  Catch a local/indie show at Cinema 21 Theater. Uptown Billiards, Blitz, and Ground Kontrol are fun places for games!  There are a multitude of Microbreweries, stop in for a tasting!

Old Town/China Town is home to the stunning Chinese Gardens.  The seasonal Portland Saturday Market is a Saturday/Sunday well spent.  Then there is the Shanghai Tunnel Tours…if you dare.

Southwest Portland:

Washington Park is full of wonders. The Rose Garden, Forest Park and Japanese Gardens are magical places to check out all times of the year.  The Oregon Zoo always has all kinds of activities happening. Ride on the Max to Jeld-Wen Field for a Game. The historic Pittock Mansion is close by and has incredible views and gets dressed up for the holidays.

North Portland:

St. Johns has the amazing Cathedral Park and the quaint St. Johns Theater and Pub.

Interstate Avenue is full of interesting restaurants and bars. The Widmer Gasthaus gives free Brewery Tours.  Mississippi Avenue on the second Thursday of every month, shops are open late and live music fills the streets.  Martin Luther King Boulevard has the intimate Wonder Ballroom that has a show almost nightly.

 Northeast Portland:

The Last Thursday on Alberta Street, all of the shops are open late and performers, musicians and dancers provide entertainment that appeases all.  Hollywood District has a family friendly charm, with Hollywood Bowl and the rustic Hollywood Theater.  The Broadway/Lloyd area has the Rose Quarter for a Blazers Game. Or see the Winter Hawks at the Memorial Coliseum. Near the Convention Center is Lloyd Mall with a unique indoor Ice Skating Rank.

Southeast Portland:

Hawthorne has the Bagdad Theater & Pub and on a nice day, Clever Cycles rents for an adventurous two wheeled ride. Portland Nursery does offer more than plants!  Check out their Holiday Open House.  Oregon Museum of Science and Industry always has a vast selection of exhibits and shows that cater to all interests. 

Beaverton, Bridgeport, Multnomah Village:

Dance classes are offered at Arthur Murray in downtown Beaverton.  They specialize in all styles for a well rounded experience.  Bridgeport village is a highly versatile mall.  It has a plethora of restaurants and shops.  The outdoor play structure and IMAX Movie Theater add a bit extra to this fun location.  Multnomah Village sends the vibe of a quaint town with in a city.  First Friday’s, Cinco de Mayo and Multnomah Days are a few events that are held here.  Gabriel Park is a quick escape to indulge in nature.

We at Events by Lisa Marie, hope this list leaves you with a few new fun ideas for the months to come! And don't forget many do not cost a lot so get out and enjoy being a Newlywed!

Jessica Lansing

Lisa Marie, Meranda and Madison

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

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The Wedding Experience

Ever wonder what you are really paying for when you hire someone for your wedding?  Wondering if hiring a Wedding Planner is really a good deal? Is it worth your money? What do they REALLY do during your wedding and how can they make things easier and more enjoyable for you and your guests?

Well come and see for yourself.  Here is your chance to come and get a "behind the scene's glimpse" of what we do during your day.  The Wedding Experience is a mock wedding.  You can see how all the different wedding professional work together with one another to make your wedding vision a reality.  As a wedding planner you get a chance to see how we coordinate everything the day of your wedding and keep things running smoothly.

This is NOT a bridal show.  It is a Mock Wedding.  Real, local professionals coming together to show you exactly what each of us does throughout the evening of your wedding.

Want a chance to win a night at The Benson Hotel?  Purchase your tickets soon and you will be entered in the drawing for the overnight stay.  The Wedding Experience Event is taking place on October 27, 2012 from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.  You will get a chance to see 5 different scenes of a wedding, eat great food, get a chance to dance the night away and possibly win the overnight stay.

Want a chance to win a fee ticket from us (ps a ticket is for 2 people)? Comment on this posting and we will draw one a ticket on Monday 10/22.  Send your friends over to comment as well and you may get an extra drawing for a free set. :)  (just make sure when they comment that you tell them to let us know you sent them)

Did you know you can also follow The Wedding Experience on Facebook? Head over and Like the page for additional information and tickets.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Lisa Marie, Meranda, Jessica and Madison

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

Hip, Fun, Sassy and Stylish Wedding and Event Planning

You are almost engaged! Happy Day!

With Engagement Season just around the corner, many couples are starting to get excited.  Bridal shows are starting up, you are seeing more and more ideas you like and some of you may not even be engaged yet. As soon as you are engaged time begins to fly by so it is important for you to remember that you need to take some time to enjoy your engagement together.

Once you have spent some time soaking in the glow of your engagement it is time to start the planning.  There are lots of things to take care of and lots of Bridal Shows to attend, before attending them go with a focused mind and list of things you want to look at, as this will help you stay on track and not become overwhelmed.  It is normal to be overwhelmed with all the information you get while attending, so take a deep breathe and remember to take things one step at a time.

First, call and work with a professional wedding planner or specialist.  We can help you sort through all the ideas, vendors and tasks and help you make your vision become a reality for your big day.

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.  2013 dates are filling up fast and 2014 inquiries are coming in.  Don't forget we can start with your engagement party.

Event by Lisa Marie

Lisa Marie, Jessica and Meranda

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

What to do for your Holiday Party?

Recently, we asked Kristina with Team Casino to guest blog for us.  We thought with the Holiday's just around the corner it would be great to have her give some tips on great company parties.  Below is what she has to say. :)

It’s time to start thinking about your company holiday party! Boring parties where you serve dinner and give away some awards are out! A great holiday party shows your employees you appreciate them, and while most people do appreciate free food, they want something more to do than just talk to the co-workers they see every day. They want a REASON to come party. There are a few ways to make your employees more excited to come to your holiday party:

1. Great prizes. No matter how you give them out, your staff will be super excited to know that they have a chance to win an iPad, TV, etc. Even if you only have the budget for one great prize, that’s a great way to get your employees excited about your party!

2. Bring in a little booze! There are many different options for all types of budgets
                  a. Have a Hosted Bar
                  b. Host drinks during Cocktail Hour
                  c. Give each attendee 2 drink tickets (on the company)
                  d. Or have a No Host bar

3. Try to provide childcare. Many of your guests would love to have a night away from their kids, but might not be able to afford the babysitter, or might not be able to find one on a busy holiday weekends. Perhaps your facility has an additional room you can use to bring in a few caregivers and your staff can bring their children, and pick them up on the way out!

4. The ability to network with the higher-ups. The annual holiday party may be the only place where all your employees will mix and mingle. During old school parties people sit with the co-workers they talk to every day, leaving little room to introduce themselves to the people that make the big decisions, without seeming pushy or intrusive. Here are a few tips:
                  a. Assign seats to the managers – have each one sit at a different table, so employees have to sit with them.
                  b. Facilitate a networking activity – try something easy and silly like taping names of celebrities and famous people on each person’s back and having them guess using yes or no questions. When you HAVE to talk to other people as part of a game, approaching others is much easier.

                   c. Bring in some entertainment that promotes networking and conversation. (Shameless plug time!) Interactive entertainment like casino nights, Hold’em tournaments, Wii bowling tournaments, etc. allow people to interact with those they may not know in a fun environment. With a band or other stage-based entertainment, they may just end up at the same tables talking with the same co-workers again!

So get to work revving up your holiday party! AND DON’T WAIT UNTIL NOVEMBER. Now is the time to start planning! If you’re already doing many of these things, Awesome!

The holiday party is an important way to show your employees how much you appreciate them. Make sure it’s a great time for everyone!

So we say give us a call to schedule your consultation today and we can get you all hooked up with a Team Casino party.

Kristina Griffith

Fundraising Bookie | Team Casino Parties & Music Portland

503.726.2121  

Lisa Marie & Jessica

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

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Saving for the Future

OK, lets face it, weddings can be expensive! However, there are lots of ways you can save for the wedding and lots of things you can do to help with the cost.

First step is to remember that it is your wedding and you should pick a theme, style or look that really represents the two of you.  There are a million images of amazing weddings out there and lots of things to fall in love with.  Many of which can make you over spend.  Make sure you take a step back and think if it is really something you WANT or just something you think is pretty.

Below are a few things you can do to save some extra money for your wedding, honeymoon or first house.  (or whatever you want to use it for)

1. When you use cash, drop all your change into a jar. If you spend $7.65 at lunch, leave a $2 tip and pay with a $20 bill you have $10.35 left.  Put the $10 back in your wallet and drop the $.35 in the jar.  Do this for a full month and see how much money you spend.

2. Eat out one less time a week.  Either lunch or dinner.  If it is lunch make a little extra dinner the night before so that you have some leftovers.  This can save you on average $7 a week.  If you typically eat out 3 or 4 times a week for lunch you can save yourself about $20 a month.

3. Drink more water.  It is free.  If you go for an afternoon coffee or pop or even just order a drink like Ice Tea or Lemonade with your meals you can save anywhere from $2-6 per drink.  Imagine if you went for 10 lunches a month and didn't order a drink and instead just ordered water you could save on the low end $20 a month.

4. Evaluate how you spend money at the grocery store. Use coupons! Even if it is just for one or two items.  The money you can save is amazing.  There are a lot of programs you can use to help like coupons.com.  Additionally, check into the stores you shop at the most for their rewards cards.  Safeway has a mobile App and Fred Meyer has a rewards card where you can add manufacture coupons to your card and do not have to clip them.  This saves you extra time in trying to remember to take them with you.

5. Use CASH! I know this may sound funny but set up a budget for all your non essential monthly expenses.  put together 4 envelopes and if your budget is $400 for the month put five (5) $20 bills in each envelope.  At the end of the week whatever is left put in the money jar! Don't roll it to the next month and Don't steal for the next month.  If you run out on Thursday make due.  Eat at home, don't buy that Starbucks, Dutch Brothers or other coffee drink.  Remember the above post about water? :) 

6. Walk!!  It is amazing how much time we spend driving around.  Walk to lunch if there is a place close by, walk to the store or instead of driving somewhere like a movie theater go for a walk with your sweetheart. It will save you some time, money and gives you a workout. :)

7. Errands - Stop on the way home from work to pick up groceries and plan out your day so that you can run all your errands at the same time.  Instead of doing 1 day try to schedule a full day on the weekend and get them all done at once.

Most importantly really look at what you are buying.  Do you NEED that item?  Can you pay for it out of your monthly budget or will it take 2 or 3?  Money doesn't grow on trees so it is good to sleep on bigger purchases.  If a day or two later you still want it and can afford it without hurting your budget then go for it.  :)

Need additional help creating a budget for your wedding?  Schedule a consultation with us and we can go over some tips and tricks.  There are lots of ways out there to save your budget during your wedding planning process as well as ways to save money and get a few more of the items you would like.  So lets chat. :)  

Life is about enjoying but not about going into debt.  So enjoy the beauty in life.

Lisa Marie

Eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

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Portland Oregon Event and Wedding Planner. 

Emergency Wedding Kits

Every couple wants a perfect day.  Well there are times when a few things may need to be fixed, altered or worked on.  Because of this even couple who do not hire a coordinator should be prepared.  This means having an emergency wedding kit on hand.  The good news is you can put this together months in advance and have it on hand and ready to go, or you can buy them at The Wedding Cottage

When putting your kit together we recommend getting an inexpensive tub or tote with a locking top and handle to carry it.

The Basic Kit
2 - bottles of water                        2 - protein/granola bars             1 - package of almonds
1 - bottle pain reliever                   1 - basic first aide kit
1- bottle unscented lotion              1- toothbrush/ toothpaste          1 - bottle mouthwash
1 - package bobby pins                  1 - package of hair ties             1 - bottle hair spray 
1 - package safety pins                  1- travel sized sewing kit
1- package of kleenex                    1 - tide stick                              1- lint roller

This has most of the items you will need to get you thru your day.  Below is what we have and some pictures of how we pack out kits.

First we have very extensive kits because as we set up and manage your day there are a lot of little things that may happen and need to be taken care of.  So over the last 5 years our kits have continued to grow.

First is what we call our Bathroom Kit and below is a picture of it and what all is included.

First it comes in an easy to carry box with a handle.  Inside you will find.

3- tampons
2- pads
6- wisps (disposable toothbrushes)
1- package of cough drops
1- package Chloraseptic throat lozenges
1- bottle Aleve
1- bottle of Tylenol (we keep both since some people can't have one or the other)
1- bottle unscented lotion
1- Dove Powder Deodorant
1- package oil blotters
1- package kleenex
1- package puff pads
1 - package of each black & tan hair ties  
1 - dental floss                                                                       1 - bottle hand sanitizer
1 - package bobby pins                                                          1- tub of toothpaste
1 - tub of clear gloss                                                               1 - bottle of Visine
1 - bottle of baby powder                                                       1 - package of Tums
1 - 3 different sized mirrors                                                   1 - eyeshadow applicators
1 - bottle of hair spray                                                            1 - Manicure set
1 - travel shampoo & Conditioner                                          1 - razor & shave cream

Keep in mind this is still only a selection of what all in in there.   We also add things that you will need just for your wedding like finger nail polish in the color you are wearing.

Next we have our Sewing Kits.

This kit is the most used and has lots of items in it.  The picture is missing a few items but here is a list of what we bring.
1 - full travel sewing kits with 20 different colors of thread, sissors, needles, pins, and more
1 - hot glue gun and glue sticks
1 - bottle of gold safety pins (2 different sizes)
1 - bottle of silver safety pins (2 different sizes)
1 - package Deodorant Removing Sponges
1 - package of fabric glues
1 - package of Body Tape (to stick your dress to you)
1- package of fashion tape (for your dress)
1 - Lint Roller
1 - bottle of boutonniere pins
1 - package of Kleenex
1 - Tide Stick
1- package Shout Wipes

Then there is our extras tub.  This tub has all sorts of extras that are often needed for set up, getting ready and during the reception.

1 - package of straws for the bride
1 - package Wet Ones
1 - package Lysol Wipes
1 - package of clear 3M hooks to hang things with
1 - pair of sissors
1 - tin of altoids
1 - package of first aide gloves
1 - first aide kit
10 - packets of Spark (sugar free energy drink)
3 - packets of peanuts
4 - granola bars
3 - lighters
3 - pens
1 - picture hanging set
1 - roll of fishing line
1- roll of regular and double sided tape
1 - roll of scrapbook tape
                                                           
1 - package sharpies                                                                1 - package dry erase markers
10 - table stands                                                                      1 - staple gun
1 - package of chalk                                                                3 - nice pens
1 - hammer                                                                              10 - nails
1 - multi use screwdriver                                                         10 - screws
1 - wire cutter

You may notice that there are some things we have in there twice.  There are a few things we keep lots of and therefore add them to different tubs in the kit.

 Lastly we always keep things in our kit that will help with entertaining the younger crowd during the reception. We always keep a minimum of 10 coloring kits.  These kits include a small coloring book, stickers and a small packet of crayons.  We have found that often times after dinner the younger kids need something to keep them busy.  This gives them something to sit and do so that their parents can relax and have a little bit of fun as well.  This is something that is always in our kits so it is just an added bonus to our client.

We believe that anything we can do to make your day a more pleasant one we will.  That includes making sure your guests are enjoying themselves no matter what age they are.



So you may be asking what we bring all this in?  Well here is a picture of the kit we use.  It has wheels so it is easy to roll.  We also have different compartments for different things so that each of our coordinators knows where things are and it is easy to get to them. 

Please note that we will add things that relate directly to your wedding to each kit.  So this may be adding some ribbon in your wedding color, bug spray or sun screen.  We may also bring an extra supply of candles and votives if we feel they may be needed and all of this can still fit in these kits.

So join us and become part of the Events by Lisa Marie family as a bride and groom.  Let us make sure your special day is a fantastic one.  Our wedding planners and specialists have experience making indoor or outdoor, large or small weddings a smashing success.

Lisa Marie

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

Butterfly Botanical Babyshower

The Stork is coming! The stork is coming! The joyous news of a new baby is here. 

 So much change is touching your lives as you are busy planning and preparing for your child’s arrival. Your friends have asked to plan a special day dedicated just for you.  The guest of honor should be showered with love and support at a beautiful and relaxing celebration. Let us help plan this memorable day for you…..and of course that little one too!

 

Butterfly Botanical

In April we coordinated a baby shower for Kristina and Baby Karly. Held at a private residence, we were able to achieve the perfect intimate setting she sought.  Upon receiving the invitations created by Sunny with Puddle Jumpin Cards, guests were given an exciting glimpse of what was to come.

A Butterfly Botanical theme was created to match Karly’s nursery which is pink, brown and white.  Guests were greeted into a secret garden oasis created by fresh flower bouquets and elegantly displayed plants throughout the rooms.  Butterflies fluttered out of iron cages and pedestals lifted white candles sitting in moss wreaths.  Lanterns were tiered from the ceiling along with butterfly garland, transforming the living room and giving it an outdoor feel. 

 

The baby shower began late morning which called for a delicious brunch spread by Elephants Delicatessen.  Pastry platter, Quiches and fresh fruit were served, along with delicate cupcakes of all sorts.  Food and drink labels, created with pink flowers adorning them, sat elevated in the top of tree topiaries.  A little classy extra, was our pink wine spritzer poured into champagne glasses with personalized butterfly charms.  We wanted to signify that this is a day to treat yourself.

What is a baby shower without games? Based on Kristina’s personality we picked three games to play.  As guests arrived they were given Baby pins, to keep them you could not cross your arms or ankles.  The second was Baby trivia which you can pick up at any local store or you can custom make.  Lastly, we had baby food tasting using three different flavors to create difficulty.  Pre portion out into sample cups before the baby shower starts.  This way you can carry them all out on a tray as you begin the game.

To show our appreciation for attendance, each guest took home a lovely personalized thank you bag.  It was an amazing baby shower filled with laughter and love. Best of all, it was a day dedicated to Kristina & Karly.

This is just one of the many baby showers we can create for our clients.  We have packages ranging design/ décor planning to full coordination.  Call today to set up your consultation and see how we can relieve the stress and add the fun and elegance to your baby shower.

Huge thank you to Stacy Hamilton with Simply Candid Images for the great photos. 

Jessica - Coordinator

Lisa Marie, Meranda, Summer, Alycia, Taylor and Madison

Eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

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Boutonniere - Left or Right?

Did you know almost everything that is part of a wedding comes from a tradition? It can be a family tradition, one that the bride and groom started or something that has been done for years.

I remember my mom telling me years ago as I got ready for Prom the history behind why flowers were wore.  Well the tradition behind the Boutonniere started many years ago.  When (and this may be a little unpleasant) indoor plumbing was not prevalent and body odors were more noticeable.

The Boutonniere, as with the Corsage, were worn to formal occasions (dinners, weddings, dances) so that as a couple was dancing close the floral scent would mask any unwanted odors.  The Boutonniere has a specific place it should be worn.  This is part of the tradition of wearing it so take note. :)

1. The Boutonniere should always be worn on the left side.

2. If a jacket is being worn it is to be worn on the Lapel - Not one the pocket, by the pocket or above. (and please not in the pocket)

3. The Boutonniere, while traditionally worn thru the buttonhole so that the flowers could sit in a mini water tube and stay fresh, is no longer worn this way. It should be pinned on straight on the Lapel.

4. Pinning it on - We prefer to pin in a vertical manner from the back of the Lapel.  Others prefer to pin it vertically between the Lapel and the Boutonniere. Some pin horizontally thru the back of the Lapel. Always pin from the the back of the Lapel so that the pins are not seen. 

5. If no jacket is being worn the Boutonniere still goes on the left side on the vest. If no vest you will want to make sure your Boutonniere is not large but instead something smaller so that it does not pull on your shirt.

 Some traditions are meant to be broken, this one however should not.

PS always ask someone else to help pin on the Boutonnieres if your florist is not available.  This is one task a coordinator can and will do for you.  It should be done right and straight. It is hard to do this if you are pinning it on yourself. :) 

Lisa Marie
Events by Lisa Marie

Professional Wedding Coordinators

Portland Oregon

503-830-7779

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

Valentines Day

Yep that is right it is today.  Did you know that there are an expected 4 million people getting engaged today alone?  That means a LOT of diamonds, chocolates, flowers, bubbly and gold.   Are you one of those couples who will start tomorrow engaged?  Maybe you do not even know it yet. :) 

Well from all of us to all of you.  Congrats. 

Maybe you are one of those fabulous couples who is celebrating your anniversary today?  Happy Anniversary, each year is a true blessing.  Celebrate them to the fullest as you never know what is around the corner.  Enjoy each day of your lives together and always give hugs and kisses. :)  Or maybe on a day like today try something a little more sexy and seductive.

Check out this amazing Cookie that Le Cookie Monkey did for us.  And they can always create and deliver belated ones.  (PS this doesn't have to just be a Valentines Cookie.  You can have them make it for any Anniversary or even Birthday)

Single?  No Worries.  We Love You Too.  Don't ever forget that someone, somewhere LOVES you.  They may not know it yet and you may not know it yet, or maybe you have just forgotten.  But they do LOVE you. 

So, while we should always make sure we are telling our friends, family and loved ones each and every day how much we love them take a few moments today to also smile at someone, give an extra hug or say and extra I Love You.  You will never know exactly how much it will make someones day!

Bridal Boot Camp

The Wedding will be here SOON!!  :)

So you are a bride, bridesmaid, groom, groomsmen and you just realized that you ate a few too many goodies during the holiday's?  Well there is no reason to worry about looking your best because registration is open for Bridal Boot Camp.  Bridal Boot Camp is here to help you lose weight or tone up to look your best. 

So here is it.  Sign up to come and workout with a Certified Personal Trainer in a fabulous gym.  Classes will be a bit of everything from cardio workouts to muscle toning.   Register as a VIP client and receive the added bonus of 15, 30 and 60 minute easy to follow at home workouts and meal planning from a Registered Dietician. 

You want to be as healthy as possible for the wedding and that includes having enough energy to go all day and dance all night.  So start your training now. 

Each session is scheduled for 6 classes. 
1 hr per day from 10:30-11:30
Session one starts on March 24th
$20 per class ($120 per session) to train with a Certified Personal Trainer

We will contact you after we receive your registration to schedule a time to meet up and see what your goals are.  We will work with those goals to help you feel and look your best for the wedding. 

Ask us about how to get your entire session for free at the goal setting appointment. 

It is not about PLANNING you wedding, it is about planning FOR you wedding.  Please note we will not talk about your wedding as this is a time for you to work off any stress, focus on your health and fitness and just have some "you" time for 1 hr a week.

But don't forget to register at www.bridalbootcamp.eventsbylisamarie.com and schedule your goal setting appointment prior to the first class. ;)

Bridal Boot Camp Team

Lisa Marie, Lisa Richards and Kristen Herron

503-830-7779

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Part of the Events by Lisa Marie Professional Event & Wedding Planning Team